Audi unveiled the facelifted and renamed Q8 e-tron last November, and now the company has announced the electric crossover will start at $74,400 when it arrives at U.S. dealerships later this year.
While the model is instantly recognizable, it sports an all-new Singleframe grille with available accent lighting. The crossover also gains an updated front bumper, more aerodynamic wheels, and laser-etched badging on the B-pillar. However, most of the attention was focused on improving aerodynamics and drag has been reduced by more than six percent.
The cabin largely carries over and drivers will find a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch infotainment system, and a lower 8.6-inch display. The model also comes standard with heated leather front seats, a panoramic glass roof, and a four-zone automatic climate control system. They’re joined by a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, wood trim, and Homelink.
More: 2024 Audi Q8 E-Tron Realigns Itself With Bigger Battery And Improved Looks
The Premium Plus trim starts at $78,800 and adds ventilated front seats as well as a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The $84,800 Prestige builds on that with a head-up display and Valcona/Milano leather front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage.
The crossover’s powertrain was showing its age, so Audi extensively revamped it and installed a higher capacity 106 kWh (114 kWh gross) battery pack. That isn’t the only change as the battery management system has been optimized, while the DC fast charging capability climbs from 150 kW to 170 kW. The latter enables the crossover to go from a 10 to 80 percent charge in approximately 31 minutes.
It’s also worth mentioning the Q8 e-tron has a Plug & Charge capability as well as two years of free charging at Electrify America stations. Buyers will also find a 2-in-1 charging cable, which enables the model to be connected to 120V or 240V outlets.
The powertrain improvements extend beyond the battery as the 2024 Q8 e-tron features an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel drive system that produces up to 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS) in Boost mode. This enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 5.4 seconds and hit a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h).
Thanks to the changes, the Q8 e-tron has an EPA estimated range of 285 miles (459 km). That’s 59 miles (95 km) more than its predecessor and makes the crossover far more competitive.
The Q8 Sportback e-tron improves on those numbers with an EPA estimated range of 296 miles (476 km). However, an ultra package – which includes smaller 19-inch wheels and low-rolling resistance summer tires – increases the range to 300 miles (483 km).
On the topic of performance, the crossover promises to be a better drive thanks to a quicker steering ratio and new software for improved feedback. The model also benefits from improved structural rigidity and a more rigid front axle bearing, which “improves on-center steering feel, permitting the vehicle to more willingly and instantly follow the driver’s steering input.”
Furthermore, the seven driving modes have been recalibrated to have greater differentiation between them. The electronic stability control system has also been reworked to allow for a more engaging driving experience on twisty roads.
Audi USA has launched configurators for the Q8 e-tron and Q8 Sportback e-tron, and you can build them now.